Top 17 external aquarium filters: which is best for 100 and 200 liters, how to choose

When choosing an external filter for your aquarium, you are essentially purchasing its heart and lungs. This little box standing outside determines the cleanliness, health of the fish, and stability of the entire ecosystem in your underwater world. And when it comes to volumes of 100-200 liters, the choice becomes especially important — here you need serious and reliable equipment, not a toy.

There are dozens of models from different brands on the market, and it's easy to get confused by the technical specifications. Power, filter media types, noise level — all of these things matter. Our rating and advice will help you understand the key differences and choose the filter that is ideal for keeping the water in your aquarium crystal clear.

We will look at models that have already proven themselves among aquarists, compare them in terms of important parameters, and advise you on what to look for when choosing. After all, the best filter is not necessarily the most expensive one, but the one that is best suited to your specific aquarium with its inhabitants and your requirements for ease of maintenance.

What is an aquarium filter and its types

The comfort of the environment in an aquarium depends on the quality of the water. Filters can be used to remove harmful impurities and organic compounds. Aquarium water tests will help you determine their quantity.

Internal

Internal submersible devices are located inside the aquarium and are attached to its walls with special suction cups. The most powerful internal filters are designed for a water volume of no more than 500 liters. However, this is sufficient for most aquarists.

Internal cleaners are compact and do not significantly reduce the volume of the aquarium. Often, for large volumes, such models are used in conjunction with external devices.

The filter system works by creating a water flow with a built-in pump. Suspended particles are lifted and sucked in by the filter. The flow should be moderate.

External

Filters located outside the aquarium are called external or canister filters. Such systems are suitable for volumes of 40-1500 liters. Water enters the aquarium through one tube, and filtered water is drained through another. Externally, the filters resemble containers with a cleaning system inside.

Filters located outside the aquarium are called external filters.

External filters are suitable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

How an external filter works and how it differs from an internal filter

Such systems are usually located next to the aquarium. They are installed below the water level, into which two hoses are placed: one for drawing in liquid and one for returning it to the aquarium in a purified form.

The pump is the basis of the filtration system. As a rule, it is installed in the upper part of the device. Below the pump are the filter components, enclosed in a small reservoir (flask). Two tubes extend from the flask (three in models for large aquariums). In some models, a pre-filter or preliminary mesh is installed on the water intake tube.

How it works:

1. Water from the aquarium is drawn into the system by a pump through the intake tube.
2. After that, the water passes through several filter layers.
3. The purified water is returned to the aquarium.

The main differences between external and internal filters are their improved design, a wider choice of filter materials, and more efficient water purification.

External filters, unlike internal ones, are easier to maintain.

External filters, unlike internal ones, are easier to maintain.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of this type include:

1. Compactness. Thanks to the small size of the devices immersed in the aquarium, the aquatic environment with its inhabitants looks more aesthetically pleasing.
2. High-quality water purification. In cases where the filter contains various fillers.
3. Quiet operation.
4. Combined filtration. The purification system consists of several compartments.
5. Durability (service life — more than 8 years).
6. Versatile use for freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

The disadvantages include the possibility of leaks, high cost, and filter size.

Canister filter compartments

The purification system consists of several sections:

1. Mechanical. Dirt particles are captured by a sponge or sentipon.
2. Biological. Material that serves as a substrate for the development of microorganisms that participate in the neutralization of organic substances in water.
3. Chemical. It is represented by hygroscopic material (quartz, zeolite, activated carbon).

In most cases, manufacturers offer filters with pre-distributed filter media. However, there are models that allow users to change the media.

The purification system consists of several sections

A good external filter is key to keeping your aquarium clean and healthy, especially if you have 100 or 200 liters of water. It's quieter than internal filters, doesn't take up space inside, and handles dirt way better. In 2024, there are many models on the market, but it is not the quantity that matters, but the selection for a specific volume: a filter that is too weak will not cope, and one that is too powerful will create a strong current and overload the system. This review covers 17 proven options, among which you can find the best in terms of price, quality, and performance, as well as simple criteria for choosing the best filter without unnecessary headaches.

Filler options

The most common fillers are sentipon and foam rubber. Their popularity is due to their ability to take any shape and act as biological and mechanical filters.

Since bacteria necessary for maintaining the aquarium ecosystem develop in the spores of materials, insufficient care can cause slime to clog the system.

The first filter systems used cotton wool, layers of gravel, sand, as well as wool and “fiberglass”.

Fillers are used at the mechanical cleaning stage:

• Sponges of varying density and porosity. They stop large contaminating particles.
• Filter wool. Its advantages are its low price and suitability for repeated use. Tightly packed wool acts as additional protection against leaks. Another significant advantage is that it is easy to clean.

The following are used for biofiltration:

• Plastic bioballs. Excellent as a substrate in which bacteria can develop.
• Ceramic rings. They distribute the water flow evenly, providing bacteria with the oxygen they need for their vital activity.
• Baked glass. This material is available in the form of balls. When baked, pores form in the glass, in which bacteria that process nitro compounds develop.
• Zeolite. An inexpensive but effective material. Its main advantage is its instant absorption of ammonium.
• Ceramic tubes. Beneficial bacteria multiply in the small pores of the material.

Zeolite, an inexpensive but effective material for cleaning aquariums

Chemical cleaning is carried out using fillers:

• activated carbon
• zeolites;
• synthetic organic ion exchangers.

Experts do not agree on the use of charcoal. Some believe that small granules are more effective. Before use, it is necessary to evaluate its appearance: there should be many pores on the surface, it should be shiny and have a light coating.

The best external filters for aquariums

There are quite a few models of cleaners on the market. Let's look at the most popular and well-proven options.

Eheim Classic 350

Manufacturer — Germany. This simple filter cleans water perfectly. The set includes taps and sponges for mechanical cleaning. Eheim Classic 350 is one of the best options for cleaning marine and freshwater aquariums with a volume of 120-350 liters.

Advantages:

• ease of installation and operation;
• good performance (620 l/h);
• reliable design;
• excellent water purification;
• low power consumption.

This simple filter does an excellent job of purifying water.

The filter is equipped with high-quality bearings and a ceramic rotor shaft, which makes it quiet.

Tetra EX

A reliable model from a German manufacturer. Suitable for purifying water in any aquarium. The design consists of five filter elements located in special baskets. The liquid pressure is regulated by valves. A water pre-filtration function is provided.

Advantages:

• stable performance;
• quiet operation;
• ease of use.

Suitable for purifying water in any aquarium

The table will help you choose the right Tetra EX model.

Aquarium capacity (liters)	Type of population	Recommended for use with an internal filter	Tetra EX Plus model
20-40	General	No	400
Plant
40-60	General
Plants
60-80	Plant
General	600
Goldfish	Yes
80-100	General	No
Plant
Goldfish	Yes
African cichlids
100-120	General	No
Plant
Goldfish	800
African cichlids
Large fish	Yes
120-250	General	No
Plants
Goldfish	Yes
African cichlids
Large fish
250-300	General	No
Plant
Goldfish	Yes	1200
African cichlids
Large fish
300-500	General	No
Plant
Goldfish	Yes
African cichlids
Large fish	2×1200

Professional aquarists agree that the Tetra EX 600 Plus is the best filter for aquariums with a volume of 50-100 liters, and the Tetra EX 800 Plus is best for aquariums with a volume of 100-300 liters.

The table shows the dimensions of the models.

Characteristics	Tetra EX 400 Plus	Tetra EX 600 Plus	Tetra EX 800 Plus	Tetra EX 1200 Plus
Length (cm)	21,16	21,16	21,16	26,32
Width (cm)	21,16	21,16	21,16	26,32
Height (cm)	31,4	36,4	41,2	49,51
Internal hose diameter (cm)	1,2	1,2	1,2	1,6
Length of each hose (cm)	150	150	150	150
Power cord length (cm)	165	165	165	165

Aquael Unimax 500

This device from a Polish manufacturer belongs to the category of canister filters. Cleaning is carried out in three ways: mechanical, biological, and chemical. The model is considered the best for aquariums with a volume of 250-500 liters.

Advantages:

• reliable design.
• economical energy consumption;
• ease of use;
• quiet operation.

The ceramic rotor shaft ensures low noise levels during operation.

The model is considered the best for aquariums with a volume of 250-500 liters.

JBL CristalProfi

This filter from a German manufacturer is used for mechanical and biological water purification in marine and freshwater aquariums. In the presented line, the JBL CristalProfi e401 is considered the best for 120-liter aquariums, and the JBL CristalProfi e1501 is best for tanks with a capacity of up to 600 liters.

Advantages:

• high performance;
• easy maintenance;
• energy savings;
• quick start function;
• reliable design.

The lack of a prefilter is a disadvantage. Algae contamination requires frequent filter replacement.

This filter has high performance and is easy to maintain.

Hydor Professional

This affordable and reliable Italian model features a five-filter system. Water is purified biologically and mechanically. Activated carbon and sponge are used as fillers, placed in different containers.

Main advantages:

• affordable price.
• convenient design;
• quiet operation;
• quick start function;
• easy to use.

The filter is used to clean saltwater and freshwater aquariums. Special gaskets prevent leaks and are easy to remove when cleaning the filter.

The filter is used to clean aquariums with marine and freshwater.

Eheim eXperience

A basic professional model from a German manufacturer. The body is made of plastic and has a square shape. Suitable for cleaning freshwater and marine aquariums.

The filter is easy to maintain. Full or partial cleaning is possible. Safe operation is guaranteed thanks to a safety adapter. A pre-filter is installed on the pipe for drawing water from the aquarium.

Advantages:

• efficiency
• energy efficient;
• quiet operation;
• pre-filter included.

The system performs mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration.

Safe operation is guaranteed thanks to a safety adapter.

Hagen Fluval

This Italian-made filter is a good option for cleaning marine and freshwater aquariums. The comprehensive system includes mechanical, biological, and chemical cleaning stages.

The powerful motor consumes energy economically, which is a significant advantage of the filter. The design is easy to operate, assemble, and disassemble. The filter consists of 4 types of fillers.

Pros:

• high performance.
• good value for money;
• reliable design.
• quiet operation.

A disadvantage of this brand is the possibility of leaks from the taps.

Powerful motor with low energy consumption.

Aquael Maxi Kani

System from a Polish manufacturer. It's a device with a remote pump.

This model of canister filters can work as an external and internal filter.

Pros:

• reliable operation.
• high performance.
• convenient design;
• no leaks.
• easy to use.

Cons: Problems may arise when turning on a filter installed above the water level in the aquarium.

This is a device with a remote pump.

AQUAEL Versamax 1

A hanging model capable of creating a waterfall effect in the aquarium. The device maintains the necessary aeration of the aquatic environment and humidity in the room.

Advantages:

• easy to use and control.
• can be used with various fillers.
• quiet operation.

The manufacturer provides sponges that perform mechanical and biological cleaning functions, which can be replaced with other fillers if desired.

The device maintains the necessary aeration of the aquatic environment.

Aquael Versamax Mini

The model is suitable for cleaning water in small tanks with a volume of 10-40 liters (nano aquariums, shrimp tanks). The device is equipped with external performance control.

The set includes replaceable and additional cartridges, which the user can select independently depending on the characteristics of their aquarium. The filter is mounted on the wall, which does not negatively affect the design.

Advantages:

• compact size;
• convenient configuration.
• low cost.

Disadvantages include the noise level of the device. When turned on, vibrations are created on the glass of the aquarium.

Disadvantages include the noise level of the device.

Sera Fil Bioactive

The filter is manufactured in China under the supervision of a German company. A special feature of this model is a built-in UV sterilizer that eliminates pathogens and algae at the beginning of their development.

Advantages:

• economical energy consumption;
• reliable operation and long service life.
• silent operation;
• easy maintenance;
• easy system startup.

The system is designed to purify fresh water only. The model is equipped with a special nozzle that saturates the water in the aquarium with oxygen.

The filter is manufactured in China under the supervision of a German company.

SICCE WHALE

The most common model in Russia from an Italian manufacturer. The body is made of glossy plastic. There are special holes for carrying. The cleaning system consists of four baskets with fillers.

Pros:

• high-quality assembly;
• ease of starting the device;
• high performance;
• powerful pump.

The models are noisy during operation. Another disadvantage is that a sprinkler is not included in the set.

The most common model in Russia from an Italian manufacturer

ATMAN DF

A Chinese-made system. It has a simple design that is easy to assemble and disassemble. Water passes through three baskets with different fillers, becoming fully saturated with oxygen.

Advantages:

• no risk of leakage;
• easy to maintain;
• reliable operation;
• high productivity.

A feature of the DF series is the location of the outlet and inlet valves on the same panel.

Simple design that is easy to assemble and disassemble

Eheim Professional 4

This model from a German manufacturer is used for marine and freshwater aquariums. The high performance of the filter is due to a new generation suction adapter. The design is made of durable plastic and is highly wear-resistant.

Advantages:

• economical energy consumption;
• cleaning efficiency;
• high performance;
• high-quality construction;
• quiet operation.

The kit includes lubricant for the profiled rubber gasket. The filter media are located in different cartridges.

This filter is energy efficient.

Hagen Fluval FX6

A powerful filter for aquariums with a volume of up to 1500 liters. The manufacturer claims that it can clean 2130 liters of water per hour. Cleaning takes place in three stages: mechanical, biological, and chemical. The device is suitable for marine and freshwater aquariums.

The system is equipped with a monthly maintenance indicator, which makes it easy to monitor the regularity of cleaning.

The main advantages are low power consumption with high power, high cleaning quality, and ease of operation and maintenance.

Powerful filter for aquariums up to 1500 liters

Jebo

This model is a seamless tank. Its main advantages are:

• ease of installation and use;
• low cost;
• wide range;
• decent configuration.

The main drawbacks noted by users are the unreliability of the design and noisy operation.

This model is a seamless tank.

Laguna UVF-3328

This filter is manufactured in Russia. It performs multi-stage purification and UV irradiation of water. Its capacity of 2200 l/h is designed for high-volume tanks.

The advantages include:

• the ability to replace the filter media;
• quality of assembly and consumables;
• and leaks are eliminated.

The only disadvantage is the high price of the device.

The filter performs multi-stage purification and UV irradiation of water.

How to choose

When choosing a filter, it is important to pay attention to its technical characteristics and the individual features of the aquarium.

Performance

Carefully read the manufacturer's recommendations. The capacity of the aquarium should be slightly less than the recommended volumes. If the aquarium is densely populated, you need a filter with a good performance reserve.

Approximate performance indicators depending on the capacity of the aquarium:

• 30-70 liters — 300-400 liters/hour;
• 60-100 l — 500 l/h;
• more than 100 l — 700 l/h.

When choosing a filter, first of all, pay attention to its power consumption. The optimal value is considered to be 10 W. For cleaning large volumes of water, devices with a power of 16 W are relevant.

The choice of performance is based on the volume of the aquarium. It is recommended to choose devices that clean a volume of water three times the capacity of the aquarium per hour (for example, for a 200-liter aquarium, choose a filter with a capacity of at least 600 l/h).

When choosing a filter, pay attention to its power consumption

Canister size

External filters are usually installed in an aquarium cabinet. When choosing a purifier, you need to evaluate:

• its dimensions (height, length, width);
• the presence of holes for hoses in the cabinet;
• and the diameter and length of the device's hoses.

The filter should fit completely into the cabinet, and the hoses should pass comfortably through the special holes and reach the aquarium.

Filter completeness

Some manufacturers allow users to choose their own fillers. This is not always convenient, especially for novice aquarists. When choosing a filter, pay attention to the availability of the necessary fillers.

The quality of cleaning depends on the amount of bio-filler. The optimal amount is considered to be 1-3% bioceramics or 4-10% bio-balls of the total volume of the aquarium.

The quality of cleaning depends on the amount of biofilter media.

It is necessary to assess the amount of algae and underwater inhabitants: the more there are, the more bacteria are needed for the biological balance of the environment.

Presence of a quick start button

This feature eliminates difficulties when starting the filter for the first time, as well as when turning it on again after cleaning. Without the quick start button, you have to suck water into the hose with your mouth.

Presence of a pre-filter

A filter installed on the pipe that supplies contaminated water to the filter greatly facilitates maintenance of the device. The quality of filtration is improved with a pre-filter, and the need for maintenance is reduced.

Availability of consumables and spare parts

Over time, consumables need to be replaced. Therefore, when buying a filter, it is necessary to assess their availability. It is best if parts and accessories can be purchased at your local store or easily ordered from online stores.

How to install

Each manufacturer provides detailed instructions for installing the device.

The general procedure is as follows:

1. Prepare rags and stands in advance in case of leakage.
2. Assemble the filter according to the accompanying user manual. Open the valves on the cover at the end. Choose ceramics or bioballs as the first layer of filler, then lay sponges and synthetic winterizer. The final layer is chemical.
3. We assess the length of the hoses. We secure the water intake hoses.
4. Before starting, fill the filter completely with water by gravity.
5. Install the water discharge hose, shut it off, pour water into the free end, and connect it to the drain.
6. Open the tap and connect the device to the mains.

When installed correctly, you will see the water moving. Air can periodically accumulate in the system, causing the water supply to stop. In this case, either restarting the filter or draining the water from the hoses and refilling them with water will help.

When installed correctly, water movement is noticeable

The finer points of operation and rules for caring for an aquarium filter

During the first few weeks, the cleaner operates mechanically. Gradual contamination leads to a decrease in water pressure, but there are also advantages to this. The accumulated organic compounds serve as food for bacteria, which means that the device undergoes biological self-cleaning.

The further condition of the filter depends on the severity of contamination and the degree of resistance to it by bacteria that are beneficial to the aquarium. Cleaning and restarting the filter is required when its throughput drops below 30% of the maximum. Self-cleaning can prevail over contamination, restoring performance that has dropped to 50-70%.

To reduce the rate of contamination, the water intake must be protected with a pre-filter.

The proper functioning of the device directly depends on its correct and timely cleaning. Without proper care, its efficiency decreases. In the case of internal structures, the water environment also becomes contaminated.

To preserve beneficial microflora, the device should be rinsed gently using room temperature water (preferably aquarium water).

Do not wash the filter in the following cases:

• achatina snail eggs are white and oval-shaped. The number of eggs increases with each subsequent clutch. It is strongly recommended not to touch the clutch with your hands, otherwise the embryos may die. Not all snails are beneficial to the aquarium. When choosing a species of gastropod, many factors must be taken into account. For example, some of them actively eat live plants, despite the abundance of other food. Others like to feast on fish roe. If the goal is to breed fish, then it makes no sense to keep snails that feed on roe. Often, natural mollusks that are carriers of infectious diseases and parasites are sold in markets under the guise of aquarium mollusks.
• introducing new fish;
• and changing the feed.

Special attention should be paid to replacing the sponges. Signs of wear include loss of filtering capacity and shape. In internal devices, the sponge consists of several parts. It should be washed in parts, not as a whole. This will preserve the colony of beneficial bacteria.

Special attention should be paid to replacing the sponges

The question often arises about the need to turn off the device before feeding the fish and when drawing water. Continuous operation of the filter is recommended for two main reasons:

1. When starting up, the device's mechanisms are under maximum load, which reduces their service life.
2. Human factor. An aquarist may forget to turn on the device.

In order for the device to remain operational when changing the water, the water intake should be located at the bottom of the aquarium.

Prolonged shutdown of a sufficiently contaminated filter (overnight, during travel) can destroy the inhabitants of the aquarium.

So, choosing an external filter is not about finding one perfect option for everyone. The best filter for your 100 or 200 liter aquarium will be the one that is best suited to your “underwater world.” Focus on the volume, number, and type of fish, as well as your personal priorities: quiet operation, ease of maintenance, or maximum technological sophistication.

Don't chase after the cheapest models, but don't overpay for unnecessary features either. A reliable brand with a good reputation and suitable performance is already half the battle. Remember that the filter is the heart of the aquarium, and the health of all its inhabitants depends on its stable operation.

Whichever filter you choose from our rating or outside of it, the main thing is not to forget about regular maintenance. Timely rinsing of sponges and replacement of fillers is more important than any technology, even the most expensive one. Good luck with your choice, and may your aquarium delight you with its cleanliness and beauty!